Search The Beachwood Reporter

Subscribe to the Newsletter

2. Chicago Celebrates The Life Of Minnie Minoso | A statement by Rev. Jesse Jackson.

Minnie Minoso was in the lineages of Jackie Robinson, Ernie Banks and Larry Doby. He helped to globalize baseball. He was an outstanding player with both speed and long distance endurance. He helped to change the culture of baseball in America. He was an enduring All-Star.

Ultimately he helped to build the bridge between the Caribbean, Cuba, Latin America and American baseball. He was always a friendly person. We spent time together last week at Ernie Banks' funeral services. Minoso carved out a special place in the heart of Chicagoans and baseball lovers around the world.

The re-acquaintance of Ernie and Minnie Minoso is a global and heavenly celebration. We miss both of them already.

Chicago is celebrating the life of former Chicago White Sox star baseball player Saturnino Orestes Armas Minoso Arrieta, known only as Minnie Minoso. He was the first Cuban - the "Cuban Comet" to play in the major leagues. His speed distinguished him. He first played in Cleveland in 1949, only two years after Jackie Robinson broke MLB's color barrier. He was traded to the White Sox in 1951 and became the first Black baseball player to suit-up in Chicago. He lived a full and complete life, until what is believed to be 90 years. Baseball was Minnie Minoso's life. He said, "I have baseball in my blood. Baseball is all I've ever wanted to do." Minnie Minoso should be in MLB's Hall of Fame.

I am so grateful that the Rainbow PUSH Coalition's Sports Department honored Minnie Minoso during last years Sports Banquet at our annual conference. As always he was energetic and delighted to meet and greet his many fans.

Chicago news reports show that "Minoso played 12 of his 17 seasons in Chicago, hitting .304 with 135 homers and 808 RBIs for the White Sox. The White Sox retired his No. 9 in 1983 and there is a statue of Minoso at U.S. Cellular Field."

He played in 9 All-Star games and helped the American League win the 1957 All-Star game in the late innings in St. Louis by throwing out a National League runner at third base from his left field position. He won 3 Gold Gloves, ranks 9th all-time for being hit by a pitch 192 times and finished in the top four for consideration as the American League's MVP. He is one of only two MLB players who played the game in five different decades, 1940-1980.

Both teams and their fans suffering, but in very different ways. Including: There Is No There There; So, A Chiefs-Saints Super Bowl!; Manny Mania; Wrong Way Ricketts Wrecking Ball; Boiberg; and Bleak Blackhawks.